The Act Party Shields Tim Jago, & Erodes Trust and Confidence

Introduction:

The recent conviction of Tim Jago, former president of the ACT Party, on multiple charges of sexual assault, has cast a long shadow over the party and raised serious questions about its commitment to ethical conduct. The revelation that the party, under the leadership of David Seymour, allegedly shielded Jago for two years while publicly condemning other politicians for offenses underscores a troubling double standard and raises concerns about the party’s credibility.

Jago’s actions have had a devastating impact on his victims. The details of the charges and convictions, while publicly available, highlight the profound violation of trust and the lasting emotional trauma inflicted upon those who bravely came forward. The legal process, while aiming for justice, can never fully compensate for the harm caused. The courage of the victims in sharing their experiences should not be overlooked; their testimony is crucial in holding perpetrators accountable and preventing future harm.

The ACT Party’s alleged two-year delay in addressing the allegations against Jago presents a stark contrast to its vocal criticism of other politicians accused of misconduct. The party’s condemnation of Golriz Ghahraman, a former Green MP, for her past actions, while simultaneously protecting Jago, highlights a blatant hypocrisy.

This double standard severely damages the party’s image and erodes public trust. It suggests that the party prioritizes self-preservation and the protection of its own members over accountability and justice. The perception of a “two-tiered” system of justice, where some individuals are held to a higher standard than others, is deeply damaging to the political landscape.

The implications of this scandal extend far beyond reputational damage. The ACT Party’s credibility is now severely compromised, potentially impacting its ability to effectively advocate for its policies. The public’s perception of the party’s integrity is crucial, especially when dealing with sensitive issues such as the Treaty Principles Bill and the Regulatory Standards Bill.

The Treaty Principles Bill, aimed at clarifying the relationship between the Crown and Māori, requires a high degree of trust and collaboration. The ACT Party’s current predicament may hinder its ability to participate constructively in these discussions, as its credibility has been significantly undermined. The public may question the party’s motives and its commitment to genuine reconciliation.

Similarly, the Regulatory Standards Bill, designed to ensure fair and transparent regulation, is compromised by the ACT Party’s apparent failure to uphold its own internal standards. The party’s actions create a sense of irony and hypocrisy, as it seeks to implement stricter regulations for others while failing to adhere to them itself. This inconsistency undermines the party’s authority and weakens its arguments in favor of the bill.

Conclusion:

Moving forward, the ACT Party faces a critical juncture. True accountability requires more than just acknowledging the severity of Jago’s actions and the party’s failings. It demands a thorough internal review of its processes, a commitment to transparency, and a demonstrable change in its approach to handling allegations of misconduct. Without genuine reform, the party risks further eroding public trust and jeopardizing its future prospects. The party needs to demonstrate a clear commitment to ethical conduct, not just through words, but through concrete actions. Only then can it begin to rebuild its credibility and regain the public’s confidence. The victims of Jago’s actions deserve justice, and the public deserves a political landscape built on integrity and accountability. The ACT Party’s response in the coming months will determine whether it can rise to this challenge.

Advertisement

Recommended For You

About the Author: Dr Rawiri Waretini-Karena

Ngāti Māhanga, Ngāti Māhuta, Ngāti Kaahu, Ngāti Hine- Ngāti Mōrehu: Lecturer, Educator, Independent researcher.